Batavia Downs witnessed a historic moment on Wednesday, November 13, when the Pick-5 wager generated the largest payout in its history, dating back to 1940. Thanks to a $23,931 carryover and a $75,000 guaranteed pool through the USTA Strategic Wagering Program, an additional $79,508 in new bets brought the total pool to $102,701. The result was a jaw-dropping payout of $41,412 for a 50-cent wager, the biggest ever recorded at the track.
The Pick-5 started predictably, with heavy favourite Raylan Drew ($3.10) taking the opener. However, a string of unexpected winners followed: La Always Amartini ($15.20), Mason Street ($68.50), Batting Stats ($9.60), and Venue ($22.20). These upsets formed the winning sequence of 2-5-4-4-1, creating a massive payout. Despite three of the first four races being claimed by longshots, sharp bettors had most possibilities covered in the fifth race, where just two winning tickets were sold.
Following the Pick-5 fireworks, the night’s feature race continued the excitement. In the $11,000 fillies and mares contest, Won Surreal Deal, driven by Drew Monti, delivered another thrilling finish. Monti took the lead early, setting fractions of :28.3, :58.1, and 1:26.4, with favourite Mcvera in close pursuit. Turning for home, Won Surreal Deal pulled away with a strong :27.4 final quarter, winning by 1-1/2 lengths in 1:54.3.
This marked the seventh victory of the year for Won Surreal Deal, owned by Parsimonious Racing Stable and trained by Jeff Sorenson. The mare paid $13.80 for her effort and has now won two of her last three starts.
Racing at Batavia Downs continues on Friday, November 15, with a post time of 6:00 p.m., as fans look forward to more action-packed events.